Understanding Web Accessibility

What is Web Accessibility?

Web accessibility ensures that websites, tools, and technologies are designed and developed so that people with disabilities can use them. It encompasses all disabilities that affect access to the web, including auditory, cognitive, neurological, physical, speech, and visual.

Section 508

Section 508 requires that federal agencies' electronic and information technology be accessible to people with disabilities. This includes software applications, websites, videos, and other electronic content.

WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines)

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide a wide range of recommendations for making web content more accessible. They are organized around four principles, often abbreviated as POUR:

• Perceivable: Information and user interface components must be presentable to users in ways they can perceive.
• Operable: User interface components and navigation must be operable.
• Understandable: Information and the operation of user interface must be understandable.
• Robust: Content must be robust enough that it can be interpreted reliably by a wide variety of user agents, including assistive technologies.

Other Guidelines

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act): Prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and requires accessible design.
EN 301 549: European standard for digital accessibility, which includes requirements for websites and mobile apps.